At least four of the nine policemen tagged in the killing of four Army intelligence officers in Jolo Sulu, last June 29, used their firearms, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said on Thursday, July 9.
NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand Lavin said the findings were based on paraffin and ballistic test results.
“Out of the nine, four tested positive,” said Lavin. “We have forensic evidence. Nagpositive sila (sa) paraffin test at positive kanilang baril na ginamit (They tested positive in the paraffin test and their firearms also tested positive)."
Lavin also expressed belief that the victims, identified as Maj. Arvin Indamog, Capt. Irwin Managuelod, Sgt. Eric Velasco and Cpl. Abdal Asula, never had the chance to defend themselves during the encounter noting forensic examination of their remains showed no traces of gunpowder burns.
He said investigators also found seven witnesses who testified that the victims never used their firearms.
“Sinasabi witness hindi nila nakita namaril (The witnesses said they did not see the victims fire shots),” Lavin said.